Human Genetics

Human Genetics (pronunciation: /ˈhjuːmən dʒɪˈnɛtɪks/) is the study of inheritance as it occurs in human beings. It encompasses a variety of overlapping fields including: Classical genetics, Molecular genetics, Biochemical genetics, Genomics, Population genetics, Developmental genetics, Clinical genetics, and Genetic counseling.

Etymology

The term "genetics" comes from the Ancient Greek word γενετικός (genetikos) which means "genitive" and that from γένεσις (genesis), which means "origin". The term "human" is derived from the Latin word "homo", meaning "man" or "human being".

Related Terms

Allele: One of two or more versions of a gene that are found at the same place on a chromosome.
Chromosome: A thread-like structure of nucleic acids and protein found in the nucleus of most living cells, carrying genetic information in the form of genes.
DNA: Deoxyribonucleic acid, a self-replicating material which is present in nearly all living organisms as the main constituent of chromosomes. It is the carrier of genetic information.
Gene: A unit of heredity which is transferred from a parent to offspring and is held to determine some characteristic of the offspring.
Genome: The complete set of genes or genetic material present in a cell or organism.
Mutation: The changing of the structure of a gene, resulting in a variant form that may be transmitted to subsequent generations.
Phenotype: The set of observable characteristics of an individual resulting from the interaction of its genotype with the environment.
Genotype: The genetic constitution of an individual organism.